Mum 'inspired' UK's youngest Indian-origin mayor

10 hours ago

Martin HeathHertfordshire political reporter

Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council Three people stand closely together indoors against a background of wood panelling and brickwork. On the left Tushar Kumar wears a gold ceremonial chain over a light blue jacket and white shirt. In the centre his mother Parveen Rani, who has long dark hair, is dressed in a charcoal grey jacket and black top with layered jewellery. On the right Linda Smith, who has shoulder length fair hair, wears a red jacket over a grey and white top. — Tushar Kumar says his mother Parveen Rani (centre) was an inspiration, pictured here with deputy mayor, Linda Smith

A 23-year-old man who has become the UK's youngest Indian-origin mayor says his mother inspired him to take up politics.

Tushar Kumar was chosen to take up the post in Elstree and Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.

His mother, Parveen Rani, is a Hertsmere councillor.

Kumar, who was born in the Indian city of Rohtak, 70km (43 miles) from New Delhi, said he was proud to be both British and Indian although he does get some racist comments on social media.

"The UK has given me so much, it's given me friends, education, healthcare, and I want to give something back," he said.

Tushar Kumar A slightly faded photograph shows a small child (Tushar Kumar) in a bright red outfit standing beside an woman near a chain-link fence. The adult wears a light-coloured outfit and jewellery, while the child’s shiny red clothing stands out against the muted background. Behind them, a light-coloured animal can be seen inside the enclosure. — Tushar Kumar remembers some of his childhood in India

His family moved to the UK when he was 10, and he went to Loxford School in Ilford before studying political science at King's College, London.

After he left secondary school, he started working with charities in part thanks to his mother Parveen Rani.

He said: "I've seen her do work for the community, and she's definitely an inspiring figure on the path that I've been on."

Tushar Kumar A neatly dressed person, Tushar Kumar, stands on a quiet residential street, framed by lush green hedges. The sky above is bright and clear blue, suggesting a calm, sunny day. Behind Kumar, a street sign reads “HILLSIDE AVENUE,” Kumar is holding a bold pink campaign sign with white lettering that reads “USE ALL YOUR VOTES FOR LABOUR 4TH MAY,” along with a leaflet featuring smaller images and additional names and text. — Tushar Kumar campaigned for a seat on the town council while he was still a student

In 2023 Kumar stood for election to Hertsmere Borough Council, alongside his mother, and also Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.

Since he was still studying at university at the time, his family and friends campaigned on his behalf. But he was "gutted" when he failed to get a borough seat.

However, he secured a place as a Labour member on the town council after a recount and said he finds serving the people "quite fulfilling".

"It gives me self-happiness as well," he said, "I don't see it as a favour that I'm doing someone."

Martin Heath/BBC Tushar Kumar in a grey suit stands beside a noticeboard outside Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council, set against a light brick wall. The board is filled with official printed documents pinned neatly in rows. The formal setting and smart attire give the image a composed, civic feel. — Tushar Kumar has been chosen to be Elstree and Borehamwood's mayor this year

He added: "I do get some racist comments on Facebook and Instagram sometimes - everyone gets that. I think racism is on the rise and it seems to be the new normal in some ways.

"People are getting more comfortable being racist on social media - I've not been in politics for that long, so it does impact me."

"I'm British", he added, "This is my home as well."

During his year as mayor he wants to highlight the work of local charities that are "working behind closed doors to serve the community".

After that, he said he wants to "aim high - so nothing less than the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom!"

Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.